FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: John Carroll High School to write new chapter in school history with new senior tradition

FORT PIERCE – John Carroll High School was not unique in writing a new chapter in its school history when it launched distance learning due to COVID-19, but the school did set itself apart with how it responded.

Its 1:1 iPad to student ratio was already in place, making the transition to distance learning less complicated, as students were already familiar with this technology.

The senior class faced the most difficult adjustments, as the vision for the end of their senior year was completely altered.

The class of 2020 was greatly affected with its sports seasons abruptly canceled and senior traditions being postponed and canceled. In support of the senior class, the school’s administrative team brainstormed ideas to celebrate them in new ways that would adhere to pandemic mandates.

Director of Campus Ministry Jennie Capezza is a member of the administrative team, as well as a John Carroll alumna and the mother of three John Carroll students, including two seniors. She devised the idea of a vehicle procession on campus to celebrate the seniors. The celebration will honor the graduating class while also following social distancing protocol.

“I thought a vehicle procession in honor of our graduating class of 2020 would be a great opportunity to unite our school community,” Capezza said. “The students, families, faculty and staff are the heart of our school, so it seems fitting that we plan a procession as we celebrate our seniors’ many accomplishments.”

The procession will take place on Sunday, May 17 at 2 p.m. on John Carroll’s campus. The route will include the school’s parking lot, football field and track.

“I’m happy that we’re aiming to have a traditional graduation later in the year, but I’m also very excited to have a vehicle procession to honor our seniors. I think it will be super fun,” said Jonathan Plata, John Carroll senior and student body president.

Social distancing regulations will be in place, as students and faculty and staff members are not permitted to exit their vehicles during the procession. Deputies will be on campus to direct the flow of traffic and maintain order. Upon exiting campus, students will then return to their homes to watch the virtual commencement at 7 with their loved ones.

“Although the end of their senior year does not look like any of us imagined, I am simply so proud of how the class of 2020 has conducted themselves during these weeks of change and uncertainty,” said Corey Heroux, John Carroll principal. “It is never easy when the world you imagined changes overnight, but the strength and courage that these young people have shown is certainly an example for all of us to follow.”

A live graduation ceremony will take place in late summer or the fall, depending on the status of COVID-19and guidelines regarding large gatherings.

Visit johncarrollhigh.com or call 772-464-5200 for more information about John Carroll High School. “Like” John Carroll on Facebook, follow on Twitter @JohnCarrollHS and follow on Instagram @johncarrollhighschool.

About John Carroll Catholic High School

John Carroll Catholic High School is located in Fort Pierce, Florida, and strives to inspire, foster, develop, and affirm the young people entrusted to its care. It serves its students, alumni, families and the community at large. Rev. Thomas E. Barrett is president and Mrs. Corey Heroux is the principal. For more information about John Carroll High School, please visit johncarrollhigh.com or call 772-462-5200. “Like” John Carroll on Facebook, follow on Twitter @JohnCarrollHS and follow on Instagram @johncarrollhighschool.

###

Suggested photo caption: The John Carroll High School class of 2020 at their senior retreat on March 5, 2020 on campus in Fort Pierce, Florida.